Everything You Need to Know Before Getting a Dental Crown

Everything You Need to Know Before Getting a Dental Crown

Everything You Need to Know Before Getting a Dental Crown 

Everything You Need to Know Before Getting a Dental Crown

Dental crowns are a common dental procedure, but not everyone knows what they are or why they may be necessary. A dental crown is a tooth-shaped cap that is placed over a tooth to restore its shape, size, strength, and appearance. If you’re considering a dental crown, read on for everything you need to know before you get one!

Reasons for a Dental Crown

There are several reasons why you may need a dental crown. Some of the most common reasons include:

– A tooth that is cracked, broken, or fractured
– A tooth with a large filling or multiple fillings that need to be replaced
– A tooth that is weakened due to decay or root canal treatment
– A tooth with a severe cosmetic flaw, such as discoloration or misshapenness

Types of Dental Crowns

There are several types of dental crowns, including:

– Porcelain crowns: These look and feel like natural teeth, making them a popular choice for front teeth. They are also durable and long-lasting.
– Metal crowns: These are usually made of gold or silver and are very strong and durable. However, they are often used for back teeth, as they are not as aesthetically pleasing as porcelain crowns.
– Porcelain-fused-to-metal crowns: These combine the strength of metal crowns with the natural look of porcelain crowns. They are a good choice for back teeth that are visible when you smile.
– All-ceramic crowns: These are made entirely of porcelain or ceramic material, making them the most natural-looking option. They are also strong and long-lasting.

The Process of Getting a Dental Crown

Getting a dental crown usually requires two appointments with your dentist at Park Hills Family Dentistry. During your first visit, our dentists will prepare the tooth for the crown by removing any decay or damage and shaping the tooth to accommodate the crown. Then, an impression of the tooth is taken and sent to our dental lab to create the crown. In the meantime, a temporary crown is placed over the tooth to protect it.

During your second visit, the temporary crown is removed, and the permanent crown is placed and adjusted for fit and comfort. Once your dentist at Park Hills Family Dentistry is satisfied with the fit, the crown is permanently cemented in place.

Caring for Your Dental Crown

Caring for your dental crown is just like caring for your natural teeth. You should brush and floss regularly and visit us for regular checkups and cleanings. It’s important to avoid biting on hard objects or using your teeth to open things, as this can damage the crown. If you grind your teeth at night, we may recommend a night guard to protect your teeth and prolong the life of your crown.

Contact Us Today

Getting a dental crown can be a simple and effective way to restore the beauty and functionality of your smile. By understanding why you may need a crown, the different types available, the process of getting one, and how to care for it, you can make an informed decision about whether a dental crown is right for you. Talk to your dentist at Park Hills Family Dentistry in Lexington KY to learn more about dental crowns and determine if it’s the right procedure for you.

Oral Hygiene: The Key to Preventing Gum Disease

Oral Hygiene: The Key to Preventing Gum Disease

Oral Hygiene: The Key to Preventing Gum Disease 

Oral Hygiene: The Key to Preventing Gum Disease

One of the top concerns of dental patients in Lexington KY is the prevalence of gum disease. Gum disease is a serious dental condition that affects the tissues surrounding the teeth. However, the good news is that gum disease is preventable, and all it takes is good oral hygiene. We will discuss the key steps you can take to prevent gum disease and maintain good oral hygiene.

Brushing and flossing regularly

Oral hygiene starts with your daily brushing and flossing routine. Brushing your teeth twice a day, in the morning and at night, using fluoride toothpaste and a soft-bristled brush is essential for removing plaque and bacteria from the surface of your teeth. Also, flossing once a day to remove plaque that gets trapped between your teeth can prevent gum disease. Make sure to brush your tongue as well to remove bacteria that cause bad breath.

Regular checkups with your dentist

Regular visits to your dentist at Park Hills Family Dentistry are key to maintaining good oral health. During your visit, we can examine your teeth and gums, detect problems early, and recommend an appropriate treatment plan. Professional teeth cleaning twice a year can also remove tartar and prevent gum disease.

A healthy diet

What you eat can have an impact on your oral health. Limit your intake of sugary and acidic foods and drinks; they create an environment where bacteria thrive. Instead, opt for a balanced diet of fresh fruits and vegetables, whole grains, and lean proteins, which can help neutralize acid in your mouth. Drinking enough water can also help flush away food particles and bacteria.

Quit smoking

Smoking is one of the major risk factors for gum disease. The chemicals in tobacco can damage your oral tissues and weaken your immune system, making it harder for your body to fight gum disease. If you smoke, quitting could be one of the best things you can do for not only your oral health but overall health.

Manage stress

Stress can affect your immune system, which can increase your susceptibility to gum disease. Try to manage your stress levels by engaging in relaxing activities like yoga, meditation, or deep breathing exercises.

Contact Us

Gum disease is preventable with simple lifestyle adjustments and good oral hygiene habits. Engage in a regular brushing and flossing routine, visit your dentist at Park Hills Family Dentistry regularly, eat a healthy diet, quit smoking, and manage your stress. These are all important steps to protecting your oral health and preventing gum disease. Taking care of your oral health is just as important as taking care of your overall health, so start today!

Bonding And White Fillings

Bonding And White Fillings

Bonding And White Fillings 

Replace Old Silver Filling And Improve your Smile With Dental Bonding And White Fillings

Are you tired of being self-conscious about your old, unsightly silver fillings? Have you been considering improving your smile with bonding and white fillings? If so, look no further than Park Hills Family Dentistry in Lexington, KY! Our team of experienced and skilled dentists specializes in enhancing the beauty and functionality of your teeth with the latest cosmetic dental treatments, including bonding and white fillings. In this blog post, we will explore the benefits of bonding and white fillings and how they can help improve your smile.

What is Dental Bonding?

Bonding is a cosmetic dental treatment that uses a tooth-colored composite resin material to repair or improve the appearance of your teeth. The bonding process involves applying the resin to your teeth, shaping it to match your natural teeth, and then hardening it with a special light. Bonding is commonly used to fix cracked, chipped, or discolored teeth, as well as to close gaps between teeth or to change their shape.

Why White Fillings?

White fillings, also known as composite fillings, are a cosmetic dental treatment that uses a tooth-colored composite resin material to fill cavities and restore damaged or decayed teeth. While traditional silver fillings are noticeable and often considered unsightly, white fillings blend seamlessly with your natural teeth, making them virtually invisible.

Benefits of Dental Bonding and White Fillings

The benefits of bonding and white fillings are numerous. Both treatments are safe, effective, and minimally invasive, meaning that they can be completed quickly and painlessly with little to no downtime. Bonding and white fillings are also versatile and can be used to treat a wide range of dental concerns, from cavities and damage to discoloration and misshapen teeth.

Contact us today!

At Park Hills Family Dentistry, we are dedicated to helping our patients achieve their best possible smile. Whether you are looking to enhance the functionality of your teeth with white fillings or to improve their appearance with bonding, our team of skilled and experienced dentists is here to help. With the latest techniques and technology, we can help you achieve a brighter, healthier, and more beautiful smile in just one office visit. Contact us today to schedule your consultation and take the first step towards a more confident and beautiful smile.

Understanding the Importance of Regular Teeth Cleaning

Understanding the Importance of Regular Teeth Cleaning

Understanding the Importance of Regular Teeth Cleaning 

Understanding the Importance of Regular Teeth Cleaning

Good dental hygiene is important for maintaining healthy teeth and gums. Regular teeth cleaning is an essential component of good dental hygiene. If you are a dental patient in Lexington KY at Park Hills Family Dentistry, we highly recommend that you read this post and take proactive steps toward good dental hygiene.

Prevents Gum Disease

Regular teeth cleaning helps prevent the onset of gum disease. During teeth cleaning, our dental hygienist removes plaque and tartar buildup from your teeth and gum line. Plaque and tartar contain harmful bacteria that can damage your gums and lead to gum disease. 

Detects Oral Cancer

Oral cancer is a serious illness that can be life-threatening if not diagnosed early. During your regular dental checkup, our dental team will examine your mouth for signs of oral cancer. Early detection of oral cancer can lead to better and more effective treatment options.

Saves You Money

Regular teeth cleaning can save you money in the long run. By keeping your teeth and gums healthy, you can avoid expensive dental procedures such as fillings, root canals, and dental implants. Additionally, dental insurance often covers regular teeth cleaning.

Improves Overall Health

Good dental hygiene is linked to better overall health. Poor dental hygiene can contribute to a host of health conditions such as heart disease, diabetes, and stroke. Regular teeth cleaning can prevent the build-up of harmful bacteria that can lead to these serious health conditions.

Enhances Your Smile

Regular teeth cleaning can give you a brighter, more beautiful smile. After teeth cleaning, your teeth will be free of plaque and tartar and will feel smooth to the touch. A brighter smile can boost your confidence and improve your overall well-being.

Contact Us Today

Regular teeth cleaning is a vital component of good dental hygiene. Not only does it prevent the onset of gum disease and oral cancer, but it can also save you money and improve your overall health. At Park Hills Family Dentistry in Lexington KY, we are committed to helping our patients maintain good dental hygiene. If you are due for a teeth cleaning or have any questions about the importance of regular teeth cleaning, please call our office today. We look forward to helping you achieve optimal dental health and a brighter, more beautiful smile.

Are Dental Implants Suitable for Everyone?

Are Dental Implants Suitable for Everyone?

Are Dental Implants Suitable for Everyone? 

Are Dental Implants Suitable for Everyone?

Having a missing tooth or teeth can be an unpleasant experience. It can make you feel embarrassed or self-conscious while eating or speaking. Fortunately, dental implants can help to restore your smile and self-confidence. Although dental implants are an effective tooth replacement solution, not everyone is a candidate for this procedure. If you’re considering dental implants and wondering if they are right for you, you’ve come to the right place. 

Good oral health is essential

Dental implants require a healthy mouth to be successful. If you have gum disease, the risk of implant failure is higher. Before getting dental implants, you should visit your dentist to ensure that your teeth and gums are healthy. Your dentist at Park Hills Family Dentistry may also need to treat any underlying dental issues before proceeding with the implant surgery.

Adequate Bone density

Dental implants are surgically placed into the jawbone. For the implant to be successful, there must be enough bone density to anchor the implant. If your jawbone lacks the required density, you may need a bone graft to build up the area. Bone grafts help to regenerate bone for implant placement, but it can increase the cost and length of treatment time.

Medical conditions and medications

Certain medical conditions such as uncontrolled diabetes, autoimmune diseases, and cancer may affect your ability to get dental implants. Additionally, some medications like immunosuppressants can make it difficult for your body to heal after implant placement. Before getting dental implants, if you have a medical condition or take any medications, it’s essential to let us know.

Age

There is no age limit for dental implants; however, younger patients may not be suitable for implant surgery. This is because younger adults sometimes have jawbones that have not yet fully developed. Waiting until the jawbone is fully developed helps to ensure the success of the implant.

Lifestyle Habits

Smoking is detrimental to oral health and can affect the success rates of dental implants. Nicotine from smoking can restrict blood flow to the gums, delaying the healing process after implant placement. Therefore, it’s advised to quit smoking before getting dental implants.

Contact Us Today

While dental implants have a high success rate and are a suitable tooth replacement option for many people, they are not right for everyone. Patients with good oral health, adequate bone density, favorable medical conditions, and lifestyle habits are the best candidates for dental implants. If you’re considering dental implants, it’s essential to schedule a consultation with one of our dentists to discuss whether or not you’re a suitable candidate for the procedure. At Park Hills Family Dentistry in Lexington KY, we are committed to helping you restore your smile and boost your confidence. Contact us today to schedule your dental implant consultation.

Getting to the Root of Toothache

Getting to the Root of Toothache

Getting to the Root of Toothache 

Getting to the Root of Toothache

There are few things as uncomfortable as a toothache. Patients at Park Hills Family Dentistry in Lexington KY often come to our clinic with complaints of a painful toothache, hoping to find some relief. A toothache can be caused by a wide range of issues and can have various levels of severity. Understanding the root of the pain can help you find the appropriate solution, so we’ve put together this guide to help our patients understand the causes and solutions of toothaches.

Cavities

One of the most common causes of toothache is cavities. Cavities result from harmful bacteria that eat away at the enamel of your teeth, leading to small holes or cavities. You may not feel the initial stages of a cavity forming, but once it gets deep enough to affect your nerves, you’ll begin to experience pain. Treatment for cavities may include a dental filling, root canal, or extraction depending on the severity of the cavity.

Gum Disease

Gum disease, also known as periodontitis or gingivitis, is an infection of the gum tissue and can lead to tooth loss if left untreated. It can cause pain, bleeding, and swelling in your gums. As the disease progresses, it can cause the gums to pull away from the affected teeth. This can result in the exposure of the tooth root, causing sensitivity or pain. Treatment for gum disease may include root planing and scaling, antibiotic therapy, or gum surgery.

Cracked Teeth or Fillings

A cracked tooth or filling can cause severe pain. When such damage occurs, it exposes the root of the tooth or creates an opening for bacteria to enter the tooth, leading to infection. Treatment for cracked teeth or fillings may include a new filling, dental bonding, or a crown, depending on the severity of the damage.

Teeth Grinding or Clenching

Bruxism, or teeth grinding and clenching, can wear down your teeth and cause severe pain. This habit can cause damage to your teeth and jaw, leading to a toothache. Treatments for bruxism may include a customized mouthguard to prevent grinding and clenching during sleep and relaxation techniques to reduce stress.

Sinus Infections

Occasionally, a toothache can originate from a sinus infection or pressure buildup in the sinus ledges. The pain tends to be felt in the upper teeth. Treating the underlying sinus issue should relieve your toothache symptoms.

Contact Us

Toothaches are not pleasant, but they are a warning sign that something is wrong and can become worse if left untreated. The best course of action is to book a consultation with us as soon as possible so that the root of the toothache can be accurately diagnosed and appropriate treatment can be provided. Ignoring tooth pain can lead to more severe issues down the line. At Park Hills Family Dentistry in Lexington KY, our team is committed to helping you find a solution and ultimately maintaining your oral health.

Daily Habits to Keep Your Gums Healthy and Strong

Daily Habits to Keep Your Gums Healthy and Strong

Daily Habits to Keep Your Gums Healthy and Strong 

Daily Habits to Keep Your Gums Healthy and Strong

When it comes to taking care of our overall health, it is essential not to neglect our oral hygiene. Maintaining strong and healthy gums is crucial for our overall oral health. Gum disease can cause tooth loss and bone deterioration. Fortunately, there are plenty of daily habits that you can adopt to keep your gums healthy and strong. At Park Hills Family Dentistry in Lexington KY, our team of dental experts recommends the following habits to ensure your gum health.

Brush Properly and Consistently

Brushing your teeth twice a day is not enough; you need to ensure that you are brushing properly and consistently. Use a soft-bristled toothbrush and clean every tooth, including the hard-to-reach areas around your molars. Also, make sure to brush your gums lightly in a circular motion. This helps remove plaque, bacteria, and food particles from your mouth, which can lead to gum disease.

Floss Daily

Flossing your teeth isn’t always fun, but it’s crucial to remove plaque and bacteria from the areas that your toothbrush cannot reach. Flossing daily helps eliminate food particles and bacteria between your teeth and under the gum line. When food particles are left between your teeth and gums, it can lead to inflammation and irritation, causing gum disease. That’s why flossing every day is a must.

Cut Back on Sugary Foods

Eating sugary foods is not only bad for your overall health but also for your gum health. The sugar in sweets and sugary drinks promotes the growth of plaque and bacteria in your mouth, increasing the risk of tooth decay and gum disease. Limiting your sugar intake and incorporating healthier foods into your diet can help prevent these oral health issues.

Rinse with Mouthwash

Adding a mouthwash to your oral hygiene routine can help sweep away bacteria and debris from your mouth. A good mouthwash also helps neutralize acidic oral environments, which can lead to weakened enamel and cavities. Rinsing with mouthwash daily can help keep your gums healthy, freshen your breath, and leave your mouth feeling clean.

Quit Smoking

Smoking can cause significant damage to your gums and oral health in general. Smokers are more likely to develop gum disease, tooth decay, and oral cancer. Smoking suppresses your immune system, making it harder for your body to fight off infections, including those that cause gum disease. Quitting smoking is the best thing you can do for your overall oral health.

Contact Us Today

If you want to keep your gums healthy and strong, adopting daily habits such as brushing and flossing properly, limiting sugar intake, rinsing with mouthwash, and quitting smoking is essential. Taking care of your gums is crucial for your overall oral health, as it helps prevent gum disease, tooth loss, and other oral health problems. At Park Hills Family Dentistry in Lexington KY, our dental experts are always ready to help you keep your gums healthy and keep your winning smile. Contact us today to schedule an appointment.

Dental Implants: The Benefits of Missing Tooth Replacement

Dental Implants: The Benefits of Missing Tooth Replacement

Dental Implants: The Benefits of Missing Tooth Replacement 

Dental Implants: The Benefits of Missing Tooth Replacement

Are you living with a missing tooth and wondering if there’s a better way to restore your smile? At Park Hills Family Dentistry in Lexington KY, we understand the impact of a missing tooth on your oral health and overall quality of life. That’s why we offer dental implants to provide our patients with a long-lasting, functional, and natural-looking tooth replacement.  We’ll explore some of the benefits of choosing dental implants to restore your smile.

Dental implants provide a permanent solution

Unlike other tooth replacement options like dentures or bridges, dental implants are a permanent solution for missing teeth. They consist of a titanium post surgically placed into the jawbone and topped with a custom-designed dental crown. Over time, the post fuses with the jawbone to provide a strong and stable foundation for your new tooth, so you don’t have to worry about it slipping or moving around. With proper care and maintenance, dental implants can last a lifetime.

Dental implants look and feel like natural teeth

Because dental implants are designed to mimic the structure and function of natural teeth, they look and feel just like the real thing. Your dental crown will be custom-made to match the color, size, and shape of your existing teeth, so it will blend in seamlessly with your smile. And because dental implants are securely anchored in your jawbone, you can bite, chew, and speak with confidence, just like you would with natural teeth.

Dental implants support your oral health

When you have a missing tooth, it’s not just your appearance that can suffer. Your oral health can also be negatively impacted. A gap in your smile can make it harder to chew properly or speak clearly, and it can even cause your remaining teeth to shift out of position over time. Dental implants can help prevent these issues by providing the necessary support and stimulation to your jawbone to keep it healthy and strong.

Dental implants are easy to care for

Unlike other tooth replacement options that require special cleaning or maintenance, dental implants can be cared for just like your natural teeth. You’ll need to brush twice a day, floss daily, and visit your dentist at Park Hills Family Dentistry regularly for cleanings and check-ups to keep your implant healthy and functional. 

Dental implants improve your confidence and quality of life

Perhaps most importantly, dental implants can improve your confidence and overall quality of life. When you have a missing tooth, you may feel self-conscious about your smile or avoid certain foods or social situations. With a dental implant, you can enjoy the benefits of a complete, functional, and attractive smile, which can boost your self-esteem and make you feel more confident in all areas of your life.

Contact Us

At Park Hills Family Dentistry, we’re passionate about helping our patients achieve optimal oral health and a beautiful smile. If you’re considering a tooth replacement option, we invite you to explore the many benefits of dental implants. Our skilled and experienced team can guide you through the process and answer any questions you may have. Contact us today to schedule a consultation and take the first step towards restoring your smile.

Dental Veneers for a Perfect Smile

Dental Veneers for a Perfect Smile 

The Benefits of Getting Dental Veneers for a Perfect Smile

A captivating smile is one of the most appealing assets you could possess. It exudes confidence, fosters interpersonal relationships, and influences how people perceive you. Unfortunately, several factors can dampen your smile’s appearance, such as tooth discoloration, misalignment, gaps, chips, and fractures. But fear not as dental veneers come in handy to help you restore your beautiful smile and confidence. We will explore the benefits of getting dental veneers and how they can transform your smile for the better.

Dental Veneers are Customizable

Veneers are thin shells made of porcelain or composite materials that are bonded to the front of your teeth to hide imperfections and alter their shape, size, or color. Veneers are custom-made to suit each person’s needs, preferences, and face shape. Your dentist in Lexington, KY, will work with you to design veneers that match your natural teeth. We will consider the shade of your teeth, the size and shape of your face, and your skin tone to create a natural-looking smile that complements your overall appearance.

Veneers are Durable and Stain-resistant

Veneers are long-lasting and highly resilient to damage, chipping, and wear. They can withstand normal biting and chewing forces, and with proper oral care and maintenance, they can last for up to 10-15 years. Additionally, veneers are virtually impervious to stains caused by coffee, tea, wine, or tobacco. Unlike natural teeth, veneers are non-porous, making them resistant to discoloration. You can, therefore, enjoy your favorite foods and drinks without worrying about staining your veneers.

Veneers are a Quick and Pain-free Solution

If you’re looking for a quick, easy, and pain-free way to transform your smile, veneers are an ideal solution. The procedure involves minimal tooth preparation and typically requires only two dental visits. During your initial visit, we will prepare your teeth by removing a small layer of enamel from the front surface. We will then take impressions of your teeth and send them to our dental lab, where your veneers will be custom-made. Your next visit will involve bonding the veneers to your teeth using a special adhesive. The process is painless and requires no anesthesia.

Veneers Can Address Multiple Dental Issues

Dental veneers can correct numerous cosmetic dental issues, such as:

– Tooth discoloration that cannot be resolved with whitening treatment.
– Gaps between teeth that make your smile look uneven.
– Minor tooth misalignment that doesn’t require orthodontic treatment.
– Chipped or cracked teeth that affect your smile’s appearance.
– Naturally small or asymmetrical teeth that detract from your facial harmony.

Veneers Improve Your Confidence and Social Life

Finally, dental veneers can enhance your self-esteem, boost your confidence, and improve your social life. A beautiful, natural-looking smile can make you feel good about yourself and positively impact your relationships, career, and overall well-being. You are more likely to interact more confidently with others, smile more often, and exude positivity and friendliness. Veneers can be life-changing and worth investing in if your smile’s appearance is affecting your quality of life.

Contact Us Today

Dental veneers are an excellent option for anyone seeking to improve the appearance of their teeth quickly, painlessly, and with long-lasting results. At Park Hills Family Dentistry in Lexington, KY, we offer high-quality, custom-made veneers that can enhance your smile’s texture, color, shape, and overall appearance. Contact us today to schedule an appointment and learn more about how dental veneers can transform your smile and your life for the better.

What to Expect When Getting a Dental Crown

What to Expect When Getting a Dental Crown 

What to Expect When Getting a Dental Crown

Dental crowns are a common restorative procedure used to cover and protect damaged or weakened teeth, giving you a stronger and healthier smile. But if you’ve never had a crown before, you may be wondering what to expect. We’ll take you through the process of getting a dental crown so you can feel confident and informed about your upcoming appointment.

Preparing the tooth

Before the crown can be placed, your dentist at Park Hills Family Dentistry will need to prepare the tooth by removing any decay or damage and shaping it to fit the crown. This may require a local anesthetic for comfort. We will also take impressions of your tooth to create a custom-fit crown. We may place a temporary crown to protect the tooth while your permanent crown is being made.

Placing the crown

Once your permanent crown has been created, we will remove the temporary crown and clean the tooth. We will then place the permanent crown over your tooth, making any necessary adjustments for a perfect fit. Once the crown is in place, we will check your bite and make sure everything is comfortable.

Post-procedure discomfort

It’s normal to experience some discomfort or sensitivity after getting a dental crown. Over-the-counter pain relievers can often manage this discomfort. You should also avoid hard or sticky foods and brush and floss gently around the crown for the first few days.

Long-term care

A dental crown can last for many years with proper care. This includes practicing good dental hygiene habits like brushing twice a day, flossing daily, and scheduling regular dental cleanings and checkups.

Benefits of dental crowns

Dental crowns have an array of benefits beyond just restoring a damaged tooth. They can improve the appearance of a misshapen or discolored tooth, protect a tooth after a root canal, and even support dental bridges. A dental crown can improve the overall health and function of your smile.

Contact Us

Getting a dental crown doesn’t have to be a daunting experience. With the right preparation and care, a dental crown can give you a strong and healthy smile for years to come. If you need a dental crown or any other dental service, contact Park Hills Family Dentistry in Lexington KY. We are committed to providing high-quality care in a comfortable and welcoming environment.